Driving Cost from Dallas, Texas to Friendship, Tennessee

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Dallas, Texas to Friendship, Tennessee: A Gas Price Perspective

Planning a road trip can evoke excitement and anticipation. The journey from Dallas, Texas, to Friendship, Tennessee, takes you through beautiful landscapes and varied terrains. However, understanding the cost of the trip, especially with current gas prices, can help you budget effectively and choose the best route. This article will delve into different routes, calculate travel costs based on current gas prices, and help you select the ideal path for your adventure.

Overview of the Trip

Dallas to Friendship is a journey that typically spans around 500 miles, depending on the route you choose. The trek usually takes between 7 to 9 hours of driving time, excluding stops. With gas prices fluctuating, estimating the total cost of the trip requires diligence and knowledge of your vehicle's fuel economy.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the national average gas price hovers around $3.85 per gallon. This fluctuating figure serves as our baseline for calculating trip costs. That said, gas prices might vary in different regions, so checking local prices along the route is advisable before embarking on your journey.

Route Options

Route 1: I-30 East to I-40 East

The most common route from Dallas to Friendship is taking I-30 East to I-40 East. This route covers approximately 520 miles. The drive will take about 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Fuel Efficiency: Assume your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon.
  2. Total Miles: 520 miles.
  3. Gallons Needed: 520 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 20.8 gallons.
  4. Total Gas Cost: 20.8 gallons × $3.85 = $80.08.

Route 2: I-20 East to I-40 East

Another route option is taking I-20 East, leading you to I-40 East. This route is slightly longer, measuring approximately 550 miles, and could take around 9 hours depending on traffic.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon.
  2. Total Miles: 550 miles.
  3. Gallons Needed: 550 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 22 gallons.
  4. Total Gas Cost: 22 gallons × $3.85 = $84.70.

Route 3: US-67 North

An alternative option is taking US-67 North before merging onto I-40 East. This route measures around 500 miles, slightly shorter than the I-30 route, with an estimated driving time of 7 hours.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon.
  2. Total Miles: 500 miles.
  3. Gallons Needed: 500 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 20 gallons.
  4. Total Gas Cost: 20 gallons × $3.85 = $77.00.

Summary of Routes and Costs

Route Distance (miles) Driving Time Gas Cost
I-30 East to I-40 East 520 8 hours $80.08
I-20 East to I-40 East 550 9 hours $84.70
US-67 North to I-40 East 500 7 hours $77.00

After evaluating the distances and gas costs for the various routes, the best option is Route 3: US-67 North. With a distance of 500 miles and a cost of approximately $77.00, it presents the most economical choice. The shorter driving time of 7 hours combined with lower fuel costs makes it an ideal route for cost-conscious travelers.

Other Costs to Consider

Apart from gas costs, plan for other expenses during your trip. While driving straight through may limit some expenses, additional costs can add up:

  1. Food: Budget for meals and snacks. Estimate around $10 to $15 per meal per person, assuming you stop for food on the way.
  2. Tolls: Ensure you check for any tolls along your preferred route. While tolls are not prevalent between Dallas and Friendship, local detours may involve charges.
  3. Lodging: If you plan to break the trip into two days, budget for accommodations. Prices may range from $60 to $150 per night based on the type of hotel.
  4. Miscellaneous: Consider costs for rest stops, activities, and souvenirs.

Conclusion

The road trip from Dallas, Texas to Friendship, Tennessee showcases a blend of hours spent on the road and the scenic beauty of the southern U.S. Choosing the route via US-67 North not only minimizes your travel expenses but also shortens your journey time to about 7 hours. Overall, you can expect to pay approximately $77.00 for gas alone; your total trip cost will depend on your additional expenses. A little planning can help ensure that your road trip is enjoyable without breaking the bank. Safe travels!